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Ford Expands Pothole Detection Technology

Potholes are a pain, both figuratively and literally depending on how big the pothole is. It’s no secret potholes are everywhere and sometimes it isn’t possible to fix them all. That’s why Ford stepped in. Previously available on the Lincoln luxury brand and Ford Expedition SUV, pothole detection technology is expanding.

The latest model on Ford’s lineup to receive the technology is the 2017 Ford Fusion V-6 Sport. Hitting showrooms and lots this summer, the Fusion V-6 Sport is powered by a 2.7-liter twin turbo EcoBoost V6 engine capable of pumping out 325 hp.

2016 Ford Fusion

Potholes cause about $3 billion in damages every year, according to AAA. Ford’s pothole detection technology works to actively avoid potholes via a dozen high-resolution sensors. Once the sensors detect a pothole, they send a signal to the shock absorber. The shock absorber stiffens, preventing the front wheel from falling into the pothole altogether. The rear wheel then reacts automatically.

“Our new pothole-mitigation technology works by actually detecting potholes and catching the car’s wheel before it has a chance to drop all the way into the pothole,” said Jason Michener, a Ford engineer.

Developed on a pothole-filled test road in Belgium, the Fusion V-6 Sport can handle even the worst roads around the world.

We here at Gurley Motor Company are proud to see Ford working on improving convenience features for drivers everywhere!